H. Billiot Fils Brut rose Champagne

92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Billiot’s NV Brut Rose is essentially the same blend as the NV Brut Reserve, 2005 (50%), 2004 (25%) and 2003 (25%), but with the addition of 2002 still Pinot. There is awesome purity and silkiness in a style that artfully balances structure with finesse. A wine of precision and clarity, this Champagne delivers tons of Pinot character with chalky, mineral notes that float on the finish. In a world overrun by oceans of mediocre roses, Billiot’s NV Brut Rose stands apart as a wine of rare pedigree. Simply put, this is compelling juice. This bottle was disgorged on June 24, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012." (12/08) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Nov 08: "Light salmon skin color with a frothy mousse. Lively redcurrant, wild strawberry and ginger aromas are deepened by floral and smoky mineral qualities. Suave, tightly focused red fruit flavors gain flesh and depth with air, picking up gently spicy blood orange and tangy mineral qualities. This nicely understated wine smoothly blends energy and depth and offers very good finishing clarity and cling. No wines at Billiot ever go through malolactic fermentation."